•
Good Sam
“Before starting your journey in an RV, it's critical that you complete a pre-trip inspection. These inspections include checking your tires, lights, turn signals, mirrors, windshield, slide-outs, awnings, the roof, batteries, fluids, and more.”
RV travel offers unique freedom and the ability to explore at your own pace. Ensuring your vehicle is prepared before departure is key to a smooth and enjoyable journey. Many common roadside issues, such as tire problems or battery failures, can be prevented with a thorough pre-trip inspection. A systematic check helps ensure safety, save on potential repair costs, and keep your travels on schedule.
Pre-trip inspections help maintain safe driving conditions, support legal compliance, and safeguard your RV investment. Many states require operational lighting and secured components for interstate travel, making systematic checks essential.
Common issues like underinflated tires, loose lug nuts, fluid leaks, and dead batteries are preventable through proper inspection. Skipping these checks can lead to dangerous tire blowouts, brake failures, or being stranded without slide-out access. More importantly, catching small problems early (like coolant leaks or worn brake pads) prevents expensive engine rebuilds or rotor damage later.
Begin with a full walkaround of your RV, inspecting the exterior for visible damage, leaks, or loose parts. This simple step helps catch potential issues early, before they lead to serious problems on the road.
To check tire tread depth, use the quarter test by placing a quarter into the tread groove with Washington’s head facing downward. If the top of his scalp is visible, the tread is too worn, and the tire should be replaced. Next, scan for signs of dry rot by looking closely for fine cracks between the tread blocks; these are especially common on tires that have been exposed to the sun during storage. In addition to the tires themselves, inspect the suspension components, including leaf-spring shackles, U-bolts, and air-bag bellows. Look for signs of rust, wear, or leaks, as damaged suspension parts can accelerate tire wear and compromise ride quality.
Even with regular inspections, road debris or unexpected failures can still occur – which is why a backup plan like RV-specific roadside assistance is smart to have on hand.
Test every light systematically; don't just check one side:
Inspect all mirrors to ensure they are properly positioned, clean, and provide full rear and side visibility. Check the windshield for chips or cracks that could worsen while driving.
For towable RVs, make sure the electrical connection between the tow vehicle and trailer is working correctly. If possible, have someone assist you in checking that the brake lights, tail lights, and turn signals are functioning properly. Also, ensure the trailer plug is securely connected and that all trailer lights operate as expected.
Before hitting the road, make sure all slide-outs are fully retracted and securely locked. Inspect the slide-out seals and surrounding sealants for cracks, gaps, or wear that could allow water intrusion. Double-check that awnings are fully rolled in and travel locks are properly engaged.
Many RVers skip this critical step. Check for cracks or deteriorating sealant, especially around roof vents, antennas, skylights, and air conditioners. Winter storage especially requires thorough roof inspection.
Tip: Use caution when inspecting the roof. Always work on a dry surface and use a stable ladder with a spotter, especially if you're not on a flat pad or your RV has a high roofline.
Check fluid levels and condition:
Inspect belts for cracks or fraying. A failed serpentine belt disables your alternator, water pump, and power steering simultaneously. Check hoses for soft spots or deterioration.
Check windshield wiper blades for cracking or stiffness. Refill the washer fluid reservoir to maintain visibility in dusty or rainy conditions.
Clean debris from the radiator and its cooling fins (the metal ridges that help dissipate engine heat). For diesel engines, check the air filter indicator and inspect air tanks for moisture.
Tip: Let the engine cool completely before checking fluids or belts. Hot surfaces and pressurized systems can cause burns or injury.
Start your generator and run it under load for several minutes. Watch out for unusual noises and verify proper voltage output. Check the oil level and ensure the exhaust is clear.
RVs rely on two battery systems: the chassis battery, which starts the engine, and the house battery, which powers appliances and living area systems. Use a voltmeter to test both. A healthy, fully charged flooded lead-acid battery should show a resting voltage of 12.6 volts or higher. Readings below 12.4 volts indicate the battery needs charging, while anything significantly lower may suggest sulfation or hidden power drains that slowly discharge the battery.
Inspect the terminals for corrosion and clean them with a wire brush and a baking soda solution. For serviceable batteries, check the water levels and refill with distilled water if necessary to maintain proper electrolyte levels.
Tip: Always disconnect shore power before working on battery terminals or electrical components. Wear gloves and safety glasses when cleaning corrosion to avoid chemical exposure.
To test the converter, connect your RV to shore power and verify that 12-volt systems, such as lights and fans, are working properly. Make sure the batteries are charging as expected. To check the inverter, disconnect from shore power and run a high-draw appliance like a microwave or coffee maker. Watch the output voltage during operation. It should remain between 108 and 132 volts. If the reading falls outside this range, it could indicate issues such as corroded terminals, a malfunctioning inverter, battery fatigue, or wiring that is too small for the load.
Tip: If you're unsure about wiring or voltage readings, consult a qualified technician. Incorrect handling can result in electrical shock or equipment damage.
Before heading out, confirm that your propane system is both secure and functioning properly. Start by checking the fuel level and ensuring all propane tanks are firmly mounted in place. Inspect each cylinder for visible damage, including dents, rust, or signs of corrosion that could compromise safety.
To detect leaks, mix a small amount of dish soap with water and apply the solution to all fittings, valves, and connections. Open the propane supply and observe the area closely. The appearance of bubbles indicates a gas leak. If you detect any leaks, tighten the fitting or replace the component before using any propane-powered appliance.
Also, examine the tank’s collar for its manufacturing date. Most propane cylinders must be recertified 10 years after the date of manufacture. Some older models may allow for a 12-year interval, but most refill stations now follow the 10-year rule. Using a tank that is past its certification can result in a refill denial or pose a safety risk.
Some roadside assistance providers may refuse to assist with propane-related issues due to safety protocols. That's why it's especially important to check these components thoroughly ahead of time.
Tip: Never use open flames when checking for leaks. Only use a soapy water solution and perform checks in a well-ventilated area.
Test the refrigerator door seal by closing it on a dollar bill. If the bill pulls out easily, the seal may be weak, which can cause energy loss and moisture buildup.
Run the furnace by lowering the thermostat, even in warm weather, to ensure the ignition, fan, and shutoff all work correctly. Furnaces that sit unused may fail when needed.
Light each cooktop and oven burner one at a time. Uneven or flickering flames often point to dirty jets that need cleaning.
To check the water heater, fill the tank and fire it up on LP gas. After it reaches temperature, switch to electric mode if available. Wait about 20 minutes, then test the hot water flow from each faucet and measure the temperature. It should be near 120°F.
Fill your freshwater tank partially and test the pump by running faucets. Listen for proper operation and check pressure consistency. If your RV was stored, sanitize the system with a bleach solution before use.
Inspect the water heater carefully to ensure it is functioning safely and efficiently. Begin by checking the relief valve for any white calcium buildup, as mineral deposits can prevent proper sealing and cause the tank to over-pressurize. If you have an aluminum water heater, make sure to use only a plastic drain plug; metal plugs can lead to corrosion and damage. With the drain plug removed, take a moment to look inside the tank for signs of hard water sediment. If the buildup is present, flush the tank before your next trip. Finally, inspect the surrounding cabinet area for any stains, moisture, or signs of leakage that could indicate a damaged or failing tank.
Check the fire extinguisher pressure gauge to ensure the needle is in the green zone, indicating the correct pressure and readiness for use. Verify the extinguisher hasn't exceeded its expiration date. Test all detectors using their test buttons:
Replace batteries if any unit doesn't respond to testing.
Confirm your emergency kit includes essential roadside assistance items:
Check your spare tire condition and pressure. Ensure you have a jack, lug wrench, and wheel chocks.
Many RVers focus on obvious items while missing critical areas. Roof inspection gets skipped frequently, yet this is where expensive leaks develop. The undercarriage also gets ignored, missing suspension damage or road debris issues.
Battery maintenance is often overlooked. RVers check voltage but ignore water levels or terminal corrosion, leading to premature failure during travel.
Even new tires lose pressure over time. Always check PSI regardless of tire age. Underinflated tires are one of the leading causes of RV blowouts and a common reason for roadside assistance calls. Confirm your spare tire is inflated too, as it's required for service if a change is needed. When it comes to lights, don't just check the driver's side. Walk around the RV and test every light to catch any issues on the opposite side too.
While many routine tasks like checking fluids or performing a visual walkaround can be done yourself, there are situations where a certified inspector is the better choice. Look for professionals with NRVIA or RVTI certifications, and ASI credentials for engine and chassis evaluations.
Hire a professional when:
Getting the right inspection at the right time helps prevent expensive repairs later. Routine maintenance may take time and effort, but it is always more affordable than dealing with major breakdowns.
For ultimate peace of mind and to ensure you're fully supported on the road, consider exploring dedicated RV roadside assistance plans. Services like Good Sam's RV roadside assistance are designed to provide comprehensive help, including 24/7 emergency support, towing coverage, and expert assistance, whenever unexpected issues arise. Comparing various plans and benefits can help you find the ideal coverage for your travel style, allowing you to focus on the journey ahead.
A: Expect a full inspection to take 2–6 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the RV. A thorough pre-trip inspection covers the exterior, interior, and all systems, including electrical, plumbing, propane, and HVAC components. The time varies based on your RV type and experience level.
A: Most inspection tasks can be completed with basic tools and a general understanding of RV systems. However, it's best to leave brake system checks and advanced electrical diagnostics to trained technicians, as these involve safety-critical components and specialized expertise.
A: Do abbreviated checks before every departure, focusing on tires, lights, and fluids. Conduct comprehensive inspections at each season's start and before trips over 1,000 miles.